Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey has thanked Tasmania Police for their efforts yesterday in the wake of social media speculation about anti-social behaviour.
Mayor Hickey said an increased police presence in the municipal area’s CBDs was welcome, with no incidents reported.
“I’m dismayed that rumour, innuendo and speculation peddled on social media had this sort of impact on our cities.
“We should not let a minority group of people who do the wrong thing define our places.
Driving fear and scaremongering is not what our communities need or deserve.
“It is frustrating to see sports training and afternoon activities cancelled when what we actually need is to maximise opportunities for young people to be actively and positively engaged.”
Mayor Hickey said no community wanted to experience crime, particularly serious, violent
and anti-social crimes.
“I’ve met with and spoken with people who have been victims of these types of crimes. I understand the lasting impacts they have, not just on one or two people, but entire families and communities.
“Yesterday’s speculation played on those emotions, and I am truly sorry to anyone who was impacted by this.
“I don’t want crime in our community. I want people to feel safe. This is an issue councils and communities across Tasmania struggle with.
“Glenorchy Council will continue working with Tasmania Police and the State Government to do everything we can to stop these incidents from occurring, working to engage young people and help them make better decisions, and support the efforts of police to crack down and respond when necessary.
“These efforts are not helped by unfounded social media speculation, and I would urge anyone with credible information about criminal behaviour to contact Tasmania Police directly,” Mayor Hickey said.
People can also pass on any information that might help solve or prevent a crime by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by using the online crime reporting tool on the Crime Stoppers website at crimestopperstas.com.au